During the unprecedented health crisis, healthcare professionals were the front-liners who handled the dire situation like true heroes. Nobody was ready for the pandemic and as the number of COVID cases spiked the physical and mental well-being of the healthcare professionals underwent tremendous pressure. While some experienced secondary traumatic stress, others underwent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
So here is a shortlist of some effective tips that can help healthcare professionals manage both mental and physical stress even during such testing times
1. Communicate
The first step is quite obvious. Speak out. Talk. Don’t keep things held back inside you. You can always fall back on your kith and kin who will be happy to be there for you when you need them the most. Speaking out about your problems takes the weight off your shoulders and helps you regain your composure. Friends and family are not the only ones you can share your feelings with as you can also express your issues with your colleagues, managers, and other employees who are on the same journey as you. You will be amazed by their ability to patiently hear you, without passing any judgments.
2. Holiday season
With the holiday season just around the corner, you can plan some fun activities with your near and dear ones. You can invite your friends and family over thanksgiving and initiate hearty talks or even plan some fascinating activities like card games, baking activity or even go to movies. If you haven’t taken time off from work, now is the perfect opportunity to go on a short sabbatical with your family or friends. Vacations are major stress busters. Of course, your phone will always be ready to buzz for an emergency but try to take at least some days completely off by finding a replacement.
3. Social media detox
While we understand that social media and news update is an essential part of life that connects you with the outer world, you should also know how to filter the necessary information. Continuous bombarding of the news and negative social media interactions puts you under tremendous stress. You can take a short break from social media and stay offline to be stress-free. Besides, you should also consider which news sources you rely on to consume news and other information. Instead of social media, consume other forms of media like music or movies and web series that touch on light topics.
4. Sleep
Did you know that various research suggests that 7-8 hours of sleep, regularly, is necessary to maintain both physical and mental well-being? Healthcare professionals are often sleep deprived especially during the pandemic but sleep is one of the important factors to consider when handling stress. Sleep deprivation not only has a negative impact on your physical well-being but also adds to your mental stress.
5. Physical activity
According to Mayo Clinic, physical activity can turn into a major stress buster as it boosts the production of endorphins, a feel-good neurotransmitter. This puts a cap on the stress that you experience on a daily basis. You can pick up any activity of your choice perform it regularly. Physical exercises are also known to keep lifestyle disorders like blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, under check
6. Practice mindfulness
The amygdala plays a crucial role in the stress level you experience on a daily basis. Mindfulness helps in controlling hyperactivity in this part of the brain which in turn has a soothing effect on your overall mental health. What if we tell you can tap into a dimension that gives you a superpower of concentration. With it, you are able to perform your tasks effectively with very little to no stress.
So, these are some effective tips that you can use to manage your mental and physical well-being. If you have more questions, please feel free to connect with us. We will be glad to assist you.
